Robert J. Van Saun Penn State Veterinary Science Extension This is the control point of implementing a smooth transition for your dry cows. The dairy cow’s immune system has been shown to decline in responsiveness during the transition period, possibly a result of increased cortisol secretion associ ated with calving. A compromised immune system may lead to an in ability to properly respond to vaccinations as well as increased incidence of metritis, mastitis, or any other infectious disease process. Although it is thought that hormonal and metabolic factors may play a primary role in this physiologic immune suppression, it can be further suppressed by nutritional insults. Energy, protein, microminerals (copper, selenium, zinc) and fat-soluble vitamins A, D, and E are all nu tritional mediators of immune function. As previously discussed, most cows will experience some level of energy and protein deficiency during transition. All microminerals are efficiently trans ported into the fetus for storage and use after birth. Both microminerals and vitamins A, D and E are concentrated in colostrum, again for the benefit of the calf. These fetal losses, in addition to reduced intake SURE SHE’S PICKY ...Anionic salts alone are no treat. But our patented CLOSE-UP PELLET* is a truly palatable blend of nutrients . and flavors suitable for either top-dressing or blending into your steam-up ration One pound per day minimizes the risks of milk fever and other health problems by supplying effective levels of anions, vitamins, and trace I jr* t minerals \ f • Ask your nutritionist or veterinarian about CLOSE-UP PELLET' .V Dawe’s r —. XJV f »«.L' | jy Laboratories 3355 N Arlington Hts Rd Arlington Hts IL 60004 Specialities in dairy nutrition since 1926 U S patent Does your herd suffer from milk fever retained placenta ketosis DA s etc ? Dawe s Laboratories can help Contact our nutritionist Dr Dave Kirk at 717*581*9382 (or 800*433*4013), for help in developing a sound transition feeding program Minimizing Immune System Dysfunction during transition, may place the cow in a precarious position relative to nutritional support of immune function during this critical period. In summary, it is absolutely essential that the preg nant cow receive an adequate amount of all minerals and vitamins to support both maternal immune func tion and fetal development throughout the duration of gestation to minimize deficiency disease problems of either the dam or newborn calf. Good Nutritional Practices; -Properlv balance dietary mineral and vitamin concentrations to match observed drv matter intake -Ensure that dailv intake tor minerals and vitamins meets the new NRC requirements -The vitamin A and E requirements have been increased lor the transition period -Force feed minerals rather than otter tree choice Use more highly available mineral sources (chelates, proteinates) Minimize stress from overcrowding, transportation, environment ind pathogen loid Energy, Nutrients And Electrolytes Ready To Add To Water For Easy Stomach Drenching • Rumen protected fat and • Colt turn, potassium and pTSpKMU. provide optimum n&mtinm for rehydration energy. ana supplementation. • Alfalfa meal, dned whey, yeast * Packaging: Available in a case and DFM't stimulate rumen containing 10 heat sealed bap microbial growth. with 4.sfounds in each bag or mmrsmm AAS offers this system as an economical, convenient way to administer stomach Contact i lour local veterinarian or AAS drenches. It comes u m, in a 50
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